Top 10 Dartmoor Walks
Looking for a selection of the best Dartmoor walks? Boasting 368 square miles, Dartmoor National Park is home to...
by Maria Makepeace / Walks
From easy trails to strenuous clifftops treks, the wealth of Salcombe walks available for all abilities is second-to-none! Whether you’re a seasoned rambler looking for a challenge, a family navigating bikes and buggies, or you’re in search of a gentle flip flop stroll, you really are spoilt for choice.
Nestled in the South Devon National Landscape, Salcombe boasts stunning sandy beaches, sweeping estuary views, crystal clear water, rolling countryside and wildlife in abundance. As you would expect, the South West Coast Path is a popular option with those eager to explore, but you will also find a selection of woodland trails and countryside rambles too.
To help you explore the area by foot, we’ve handpicked a selection of our favourite Salcombe walks aimed to suit a variety of ages and abilities. Our favourite trails highlight just a few of the stunning routes found in the local area, but should you want even more inspiration or you’re hungry to explore further afield, be sure to read our blog on walks in South Devon.
At Coast & Country Cottages, we are massive advocates of embracing the great outdoors, regardless of rain or shine. We have a variety of Salcombe holiday cottages perfectly situated for exploring the region by foot.
View our collection of Salcombe holiday cottages
Looking for a particular trail? Use our quick links below to navigate the content, or read on to learn a little more about our favourite Salcombe walks…
Here’s your guide to the best Salcombe walks both in and around Salcombe, for every ability level.
Distance: 1.5 miles one-way (2.4 km)
Starting point: Snapes Point National Trust Car Park
The most accessible of Salcombe walks, this gentle route offers stunning panoramic views across both the Kingsbridge Estuary and Salcombe town. With level terrain and a selection of conveniently placed benches along the way, it’s perfect for families, wheelchairs, and pushchairs. A circular extension adds an extra mile through the countryside.
Distance: 1.5 miles one-way (2.4 km)
Starting point: Malborough, near Salcombe
Starting from the village of Malborough itself, you will find the cycle path situated alongside the Village Play Park and Village Hall. This walk is perfect for those wanting to undertake a leisurely mooch into the town of Salcombe. Best of all, you won’t have the hassle of having to park your car in central Salcombe, which can be tricky in the summer.
A dedicated cycle route, the path has a fairly even surface with gentle inclines making it easy to navigate. As you would expect, it is a hive of activity – it’s a great option for those with buggies and balance bikes, and at the other end of the spectrum, it’s also a popular route for runners too.
Distance: 4 mile circular (6.4 km)
Starting point: Salcombe
Starting with an exciting ferry crossing, this popular Salcombe walk navigates past Mill Bay’s crystal-clear waters along the South West Coast Path to the exclusive Gara Rock Hotel (ideal for a tipple stop for those that are thirsty!) It then hairpins back towards Mill Bay beach, through age old woodland. The route is varied in its terrain crossing sandy beaches, woodland paths, and dramatic coastal sections, making it perfect for those that like variety!
Distance: 4 mile circular (6.4 km)
Starting point: Salcombe’s North Sands Car Park or East Soar National Trust Car Park
This rewarding circular walk combines the perfect blend of coastal views with countryside charm. The route passes through agricultural grazing lands where Highland cattle and Dartmoor ponies roam, leading to the welcoming East Soar Walkers Hut, where you can grab a cake and coffee. The journey then takes you onto the secluded Soar Mill Cove – it’s a great place for a wild swim, so be sure to pack your swimmers if you’re feeling adventurous!
Distance: 5 mile circular (8 km)
Starting point: North Sands Car Park
Starting from North Sands beach, this classic Salcombe walk offers spectacular coastal scenery. The route winds through Collaton Wood and past South Sands beach before reaching the dramatic Bolt Head. Be sure to watch for dolphins and seabirds from the perfectly positioned clifftop vantage points.
Distance: 8.5 miles one-way (13.7 km)
Starting point: Hope Cove’s Outer Hope Cove Car Park
One of the most challenging Salcombe walks, this route delivers breathtaking coastal views throughout and is well worth putting in the effort. Starting from the picturesque Hope Cove, you will pass several secret beaches and also dramatic headlands before reaching Salcombe. Remember to arrange return transport, this route is challenging and you will be extremely grateful for forward planning!
Distance: 7 miles one-way (11.3 km)
Starting point: Salcombe town
A spectacular coastal walk featuring rugged cliffs and hidden coves, this challenging route rewards hikers with some of South Devon’s most dramatic coastal scenery and fascinating geological features, offering unparalleled views stretching as far as Start Point. This route can be demanding and is suitable for well seasoned hikers.
Distance: 2 mile circular (3.2 km)
Starting point: Salcombe town, Whitestrand Pontoon
Beginning with a short ferry ride from Salcombe, this gentle walk explores the eastern shore of the estuary, and enjoys a blanket of white sand beaches and turquoise waters. The route offers stunning views back across to Salcombe town and is perfect for a relaxed morning or afternoon stroll.
Distance: 3 mile circular (4.8 km)
Starting point: East Soar National Trust Car Park
This moderate walk combines dramatic headland views with the reward of reaching the secluded Soar Mill Cove. The route offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, including seals in the cove and various seabirds along the cliffs – keep your eyes peeled for the lesser spotted peregrine falcon, as they nest along this stretch of coastline.
Distance: 3 mile circular (4.8 km)
Starting point: East Soar National Trust Car Park
This varied walk combines South Devon countryside with subtropical gardens! The highlight is Overbeck’s Garden, a National Trust property boasting exotic plants and spectacular coastal views. Although the route includes steep sections you will be rewarded with diverse landscapes and stunning vistas.
Salcombe is the ultimate destination for a walking holiday, and at Coast & Country Cottages we boast an enviable collection of self- catering properties perfectly positioned to explore an abundance of Salcombe walks. From traditional coastal cottages and holiday cottages near the beach, to country escapes tucked within the gentle folds of the Salcombe countryside, you are sure to find something to suit. Regardless of whether you’re in search of the perfect family walking holiday, a romantic retreat, dog-friendly holiday or luxury getaway, we’ve got you covered.
by Maria Makepeace / Walks
I love the South West and ensuring visitors to the region have the best experience possible. That's why I love sharing local tips ...
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